MAN BANNED FROM KEEPING ANIMALS AFTER CRUELTY CAUGHT ON CCTV
Matthew Murray, aged 25, has been convicted of cruelty towards a dog after CCTV footage captured him repeatedly kicking a bulldog named Bella in a garden in Bromborough, Wirral.The incident occurred on December 29 and involved Murray attacking Bella, which resulted in the animal suffering soft tissue injuries.
Murray admitted to the cruelty, explaining to the RSPCA that he was feeling stressed at the time and had lost his temper because Bella had urinated in the kitchen.
The court heard how the footage showed Murray running towards a fence and kicking Bella with his left leg, then stabilizing himself and kicking her again with his other leg, causing her to yelp in pain.
He was heard shouting commands and swearing, with Bella then running away and crying out in distress.
An investigation was launched, and Bella was given pain relief for ongoing injuries related to her hips and spinal conditions.
A veterinarian said the emotional impact on Bella might be lifelong and that she likely experienced pain for days after the incident.
In January, Murray was interviewed by the RSPCA and took full responsibility, expressing remorse for his actions.
He stated he was feeling stressed due to the holiday and running late, which caused him to lose his temper and kick Bella.
During the investigation, the dog was signed over to the RSPCA, and Bella is now in their care, awaiting rehoming.
Murray was sentenced in Wirral Magistrates Court to an 18-month community order, 240 hours of unpaid work, and a victim surcharge of £114, and he was banned from keeping animals for 10 years.
